Los Angeles - Getting There By Road
Driving in the United States is on the right. For UK nationals, a full UK driving licence is sufficient. Other nationalities are required to have an International Driving Permit but it must be accompanied by a full driving licence from their home country. The minimum driving age in the USA is 16 years.
Speed limits are 40-56kph (25-35mph) in towns, 88kph (55mph) on highways and 105kph (65mph) on freeways, unless otherwise posted. Drivers may turn right at a red light, after stopping, unless there is a sign that prohibits it. A left turn is permitted on red if turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. Pedestrians have right of way. The wearing of seat belts in a private vehicle is mandatory. Children under six years must be protected in car seats. California has strict laws against drink-driving and driving while intoxicated is cause for arrest and a criminal charge. Drink-driving laws are strictly enforced. The maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio is 0.08%. Open containers of alcoholic beverages are not permitted in vehicles.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) (tel: 1 800 222 1333; website: www.aaa-calif.com) can provide information on driving routes and online maps, and may offer reciprocal benefits to members of automobile clubs in other countries.
Emergency breakdown service: AAA (tel: 1 800 222 4357/AAA HELP).
Between 0630 and 1900, Caltrans (California Department of Transportation) will assist freeway drivers with minor problems. For emergencies dial 911. Call 1 800 427 7623 for current highway conditions.
Routes to the city: Interstate 5 (I-5) connects Los Angeles with Seattle in the north and San Diego in the south. The Pacific Coast Highway (State Highway 1) is a scenic route north along the California coast to Santa Barbara and San Francisco. Los Angeles is linked to Phoenix by I-10, to Las Vegas and Salt Lake City by I-15, and to Oklahoma City and Memphis by I-40.
Approximate Driving times to Los Angeles: From San Diego is 2 hours 45 minutes; Las Vegas is 4 hours 30 minutes; San Francisco is 9 hours.
Coach services: The main Greyhound (tel: (214) 849 8966 or 1 800 231 2222; website: www.greyhound.com) coach station is at 1716 East Seventh Street. Greyhound provides coach services to cities nationwide. Facilities include baggage assistance and snack bar.
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